Primary Health Leadership Conference 2026
The People Project invites you to the annual Primary Health Leadership Conference.
Join us at the Primary Health Leadership Conference 2026, a two-day event bringing together leaders from general practice, allied health, and the broader primary health sector to connect, share, and strengthen leadership across Tasmania.
This year, the conference will be held in Hobart at the Hotel Grand Chancellor from Thursday 29th October to Friday 30th October 2026. We are excited to bring this conference to Hobart, continuing our commitment to sharing the event across Tasmania.
This year’s theme, Creating Community Through Connection, is centered on the practice manager and leadership community, and how we build connections though shared experiences across five key domains: self, business, community, teams, and leadership. It’s about strengthening relationships that extend beyond the conference, and recognising that real connection is built through lived, shared experience across the work we do everyday.
Attendees can expect a thoughtful program of keynote speakers, interactive sessions, and grounded conversations focused on leadership, workforce challenges, wellbeing, and innovation in primary health. It’s an opportunity to step back from day-to-day demands, reconnect with purpose, and strengthen the relationships that support sustainable practice.
Who Should Attend?
This event is ideal for:
- Practice managers and operational leaders in general practice
- Allied health professionals in leadership or senior clinical roles
- Health services managers and coordinators across primary health settings
- Workforce, quality, and service development staff
- Emerging leaders stepping into formal or informal leadership roles
- Professionals involved in community health, wellbeing, and integrated care
What’s Included?
Your registration includes:
- Access to all conference sessions and workshops
- Thursday evening networking drinks and nibbles
- Morning teas, lunches, and refreshments throughout the conference
- Conference materials and resources
- Opportunities to connect with peers, speakers, and industry professionals
We look forward to welcoming you to Hobart for a conference that brings people together, supports growth, and helps build a more connected primary health community across Tasmania.
Speakers
Penny Terry
MC & Keynote Speaker
Penny Terry is a communication specialist, speaker, MC, trainer, mentor, and author who helps leaders turn complex ideas into clear, engaging messages.
A former ABC radio presenter with more than 20,000 interviews, she is skilled in reading audiences, asking powerful questions, and shaping meaningful conversations.
Penny works with leaders and teams to strengthen communication and leadership impact through storytelling and human insight, delivered with warmth and clarity. She believes that when the work matters, how we communicate it matters just as much.
Nic Stephen
Keynote Speaker
Nic Stephen is a leadership coach and facilitator at You Who, helping leaders connect with the person behind the role and stay grounded in who they are.
A former educator and senior not-for-profit leader, he brings reflective facilitation that builds clarity, self-awareness, and practical growth.
Following a stroke at 37, Nic brings lived experience of change, identity, and resilience. He is known for honest questions and practical tools that support meaningful reflection.
Danny Haydon
Keynote Speaker
Danny Haydon is a health sector consultant and board leader with 20+ years in leadership, governance, advisory roles.
Principal Consultant at Haydon Health, supporting medical, allied health, not-profits to improve strategy, performance, sustainability.
Board experience including Chair of Sonder and Director roles with The People Project Tasmania.
Graduate of AICD, recognised for governance expertise and better health outcomes.
Mitch McPherson
Keynote Speaker
Mitch McPherson is the founder of Tasmanian organisation SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY, created after the loss of his brother Ty to suicide in 2013. He works to reduce stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations across Tasmania.
He is the 2017 Tasmanian Young Australian of the Year and a National R U OK? Day Ambassador, and a respected speaker and MC.
Mitch is known for his genuine, relatable connection with audiences and his commitment to encouraging people to speak up and support one another.
Lucy Byrne
Keynote Speaker
Lucy Byrne is an award-winning consultant, facilitator, and leadership advisor working across Australia to strengthen leadership, governance, and workplace culture.
She is Tasmania’s first Credentialed Professional Facilitator™ and delivers practical workshops that support reflection and action.
She works with organisations across government, health, community, and education to improve outcomes for people, teams, and communities.
Accommodation Options for Delegates
We’ve chosen a range of accommodation options close to the conference venue in Hobart. Each option is within easy walking distance, making it simple for you to move between your stay and the event.
1 Davey Street, Hobart TAS 7000
This is the conference venue. Staying here places you right at the center of the event, with everything taking place on sight.
The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel
1 Macquarie Street, Hobart TAS 7000
Located just one block from the venue, this is a simple and convenient option. A 10% discount is available for delegates using the promo code PHLC2026.
Please click here to make your reservation – the discount will be applied automatically.
Discount period: 28 October – 1 November 2026
Parking is available for an additional fee per space, per night, and subject to availability at the time of booking. To secure your parking spot, please include a request during your reservation or contact the Reservations Team on (03) 62355355.
34 Murray Street, Hobart TAS 7000
A short walk from the conference venue, this hotel offers a welcoming stay with character. Delegates can access a 10% discount using the code PHLC2026.
Please click here to make your reservation – the discount will be applied automatically.
Discount period: 28 October – 1 November 2026
Parking is available for an additional fee per space, per night, and subject to availability at the time of booking. To secure your parking spot, please include a request during your reservation or contact the Reservations Team on (03) 6237 2999.
Parking
Parking is available in and around the Hobart CBD, with several secure options within walking distance of the venue.
You can view parking locations and details here.
Catering
Catering will be provided throughout the conference.
Tea, coffee, morning tea, lunch, and afternoon refreshments will be supplied each day. We aim to make breaks easy, welcoming, and a chance to connect with others attending the event.
Please make sure you include any dietary requirements when purchasing your ticket.
Sponsors
